Thoracic cage injuries

Eur J Radiol. 2019 Jan:110:225-232. doi: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2018.12.003. Epub 2018 Dec 6.

Abstract

Rib fractures are the most common form of blunt thoracic injury. Multiple rib fractures are an important indicator of trauma severity, with increased morbidity and mortality occurring with increasing numbers of rib fractures, especially in the elderly. Thoracic cage injuries may be associated with concomitant and potentially life-threating injuries. In the acute setting, correct recognition of the pattern, extent and severity of thoracic cage injuries, may aid in more accurate delineation of concomitant injuries.

Keywords: Chondrosternal junction disruption; Costal cartilage fracture; Costochondral separation; Manubriosternal joint injuries; Rib fracture; Sternal fracture.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiography / methods
  • Rib Cage / diagnostic imaging*
  • Rib Fractures / diagnostic imaging*
  • Rib Fractures / therapy
  • Thoracic Injuries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Thoracic Injuries / therapy
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / diagnostic imaging*
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / therapy